Iran's Rouhani meets with Turkish PM Erdogan

ISTANBUL -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani met with Turkish officials Monday, including Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in the first official Iranian presidential visit to Turkey since 1996.

Rouhani's meetings in Ankara come just before the start of direct talks in Geneva between Iran and the U.S on the Iranian nuclear program.

Rouhani is expected to sign agreements with Turkey aimed at improving ties that have been strained over the war in Syria, where Iran backs the government and Turkey the rebels. Rouhani will also meet with Turkish President Abdullah Gul.

Iran is both an important trading partner for Turkey and a rival for influence in the region. Turkey, anticipating that the nuclear talks lead to a further easing of sanctions on Iran, is looking to boost energy cooperation. (Associated Press)